In fall 2024, my wheelchair was damaged by bus drivers improperly securing my wheelchair. Since then, despite multiple training sessions done by the bus company, drivers continue to improperly secure my chair, resulting in the possibility of damage every time I ride the campus bus to get around campus to my classes. The bus company paid for some repairs to my chair, but due to the continued improper securement and treatment, it remains unsafe to take the bus due to the risk of damage and due to worsened symptoms as a result of not being able to use my wheelchair often, because of waiting for repairs, for a large part of the fall and spring semesters.
I am starting my senior year this fall. I need a power assist, such as a Smart drive, to help me get around campus safely. Without a power assist, I cannot safely navigate campus. This has become especially apparent over the past few months.
I’m pursuing a bachelor’s degree in medical humanities & health studies and hoping to attend graduate school in fall 2026 to pursue a master’s degree in public health. A power assist would help me continue to pursue these without causing worsened or new medical problems.
